The Hard Things About IP

Episode 5 – The Hard Things About IP

Guest: Christina Wainikka, Intellectual Property Policy Expert, Confederation of Swedish Enterprise

In this episode, Christina Wainikka takes us inside the world of IP policy—from how she first discovered her passion for intellectual property to what it’s like attending IP5 meetings with the world’s leading patent offices.

We explore the common blind spots in IP strategy—why it’s more than a legal matter, and how it can drive business value and attract investors. Christina also highlights why both small and large companies need to use patent data and competitive intelligence to avoid costly missteps.

From AI tools that could transform legal workflows to the IP lessons hiding in your favorite Disney films, Christina brings clarity, candor, and a bit of inspiration to the conversation.

Because the hard things about IP? They’re what make the difference between protecting ideas and losing them.

Episode 4 – The Hard Things About IP

Guest: Danielle Lewensohn, Director Intellectual Property Management

Danielle Lewensohn joins us to talk about the challenges of managing IP in a fast-paced, highly regulated environment—what she jokingly calls “regulatory lasagna.” From improving workflows and prioritizing IP internally, to why Excel just isn’t enough anymore, we cover what it really takes to make IP visible and actionable across an organization. 

She shares her views on AI as a helpful assistant, not a replacement, and why competitive monitoring is like choosing the right path in the woods—miss it, and you might get eaten by wolves. We wrap up with a clever analogy between Mozart, Salieri, and the inventive step. 

Because the hard things about IP? They’re the ones that help turn ideas into lasting value. 

Episode 3 – The Hard Things About IP

Guest: Per Wendin, IP Consultant

In the third episode, Per Wendin reflects on his experiences working with IP in large, organizations like Spotify and AstraZeneca. We explore how IP professionals can better communicate the value of their work to management, the role of IP in shaping competitive strategy, and how digital transformation has reshaped the field in recent years.

With a mix of practical examples and strategic thinking, Per offers a sharp perspective on what it takes to elevate IP within a company.

Episode 2 – The Hard Things About IP

Guest: Mitja Schonecke, IP Manager Automotive and Aerospace  

In the second episode, Mitja Schonecke shares his journey into the world of IP, his experience managing patents across industries, and why filing without a clear strategy is a common—and costly—mistake.

We dive into the key challenges companies face in protecting innovation, the role of competitive monitoring, and how digital transformation is changing the way we approach IP. From the foundations of a strong IP strategy to real-world lessons, Mitja offers insights into the thinking behind successful IP management.

Because the hard things about IP? They’re the ones that make all the difference

Episode 1 – The Hard Things About IP

Guest: Jonas Hagman, Patent Attorney & IP Consultant

In our first episode, Jonas Hagman shares his path into IP, the idea behind his consultancy, and why managing IP is about more than just filing patents.

We dive into key challenges—from unclear strategies and overlooked collaboration agreements to knowing when to invest in an IPMS. Jonas also reflects on AI’s impact, the value of strong IP strategy, and yes, even IP in movies.

Because the hard things about IP? They’re the ones that matter most.